156 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com “Healthy eating breaks down on busy days, not the planned ones. Having one go-to meal you can throw together in five minutes – like greens, pre-cooked protein, fermented veggies and healthy fats – removes decision fatigue.” 3. A 60-90 second pause before meals “We eat in a rush or in stress mode, and that’s when digestion and cravings tend to go off the rails. A short pause before meals – a prayer, one slow breath, a hand on your belly, a quick “what does my body actually need?” – shifts you into rest and digest. This tiny habit improves digestion, helps you eat more intentionally and often cuts down on overeating,” said D’Amato. DEBUNKING THE BIGGEST DIET MYTH D’Amato wants to set the record straight on this long-standing myth. “One diet myth I wish we could retire is the idea that eating less and exercising more is the magic formula for weight loss. In reality, undereating – especially for women – can tank metabolism, disrupt hormones, increase cravings and make fat loss harder. The real solution is eating enough of the right things to support your thyroid, muscle tissue, blood sugar and stress response. When the body feels safe and nourished, it actually lets go of weight much more efficiently,” she explained. WHAT A POST-HOLIDAY RESET REALLY LOOKS LIKE The holidays are meant to be shared around the table, and by the time the new year rolls around, sometimes it feels like it’s time for a reset. Shifting our focus from restriction to recalibrating helps us take control. D’Amato added, “A balanced reset isn’t about restriction – it’s about stabilizing blood sugar and reducing inflammation. I like to start with a protein-rich breakfast, a colorful, fiber-heavy lunch and a simple dinner with lean protein, veggies and healthy fats. Add minerals, hydration and a short walk after meals, and your digestion and energy bounce back quickly.” CUTTING THROUGH THE NOISE: WHERE TO START We live in a time in which information is never lacking. We are inundated with unsolicited advice through social media channels, and weight loss is certainly a hot topic. It’s important to find credible sources before trying any trend. D’Amato counseled, “If advice sounds extreme, fear-based or all-or-nothing, it’s usually worth ignoring.” It sounds like we should trust our gut here … literally! So here’s to the new year. A year of feeling better, not restricted. Let’s commit to focusing on small habits and new rhythms coupled with nourishment that fuels our bodies. Cancel the extremes and celebrate little wins. Give yourself grace as you step into this real-life approach to long-term health. Wellness is a lifestyle. Welcome it with curiosity. health & wellness
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